The Sum of Our Parts

Language, storytelling, traditional foods and shared culture connect Indigenous Peoples to their ancestors.

Passed down from generation to generation, Indigenous traditions have persevered despite the systemic challenges their peoples have faced. For many, the path to healing begins by creating spaces where trauma can be acknowledged, resilience can be celebrated and knowledge can be shared.

The survivors of the Lebret/Qu’Appelle and Gordon’s Indian Residential Schools in British Columbia are turning their emotional, mental and spiritual pain into strength to lead a three-day event bringing together Elders, Knowledge Keepers and youth. The Okanese Youth and Elders Gathering 2025 welcomes all ages to learn about the history of Okanese First Nation, the impacts of the residential school system and traditional Cree ways of knowing and healing. Participants will learn about the values and resilience passed down from kohkoms and moshoms who have survived, healed and led their families forward. They will take part in pipe ceremonies, smudging, tipi-raising, traditional food gathering and language workshops.

This gathering is not only an act of local cultural revitalization, but one that will create a larger impact across Canada as Elders leading the event prepare to present the project at the National Gathering of Elders in September 2025. The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is honoured to contribute its support towards the community’s ongoing journey and ensure youth understand the weight of their history and the strength of their roots.

Archdiocese of Regina